Mathieu disappointed by France snub

Valencia full-back Jeremy Mathieu has spoken of his disappointment at failing to break into the France squad.

Mathieu has been a mainstay of Los Che's defence this season as Unai Emery's men have mounted a strong challenge to finish in the Champions League qualifying spots in the Primera Division.

The only blemish on Mathieu's season has been his inability to get into Les Bleus set-up, especially as regular left-back Patrice Evra has, until recently, been ostracised following his part in the bust-up which ruined France's World Cup in South Africa.

The uncapped former Toulouse defender told L'Equipe: "It is a disappointment, although it remains in the back of my mind.

"I think Laurent Blanc has his squad and it will be very difficult to get into it. It is what I lack in my career. With the return of Evra, I can't deny I asked myself a lot of questions.

"Did I deserve to be called-up? I don't know but there were several friendly games...

"The team is under reconstruction and I wish I had the chance to show what I was worth, simple as that, but the coach decides. All I can do is work hard and see what happens."